Drafted Virtual Reality - A New Paradigm to Design with Computers

Abstract

This paper proposes a new technique for designing spaces, called Drafted Virtual Reality (DVR), to be used in interior, architectural or industrial design. It proposes the construction of virtual panoramic environments through the QuickTime VR (QTVR) Panorama platform (Apple), starting from sketches made by hand using traditional pen-on-paper techniques. To construct these drawings, the designer uses the computer to build a graphic panoramic template. Using this technique, the designer takes advantage of both approaches, the capacities and possibilities of the computer using VR (3D environments, interaction and real-time), and those of free-hand sketches (abstraction, inaccuracy and ambiguity). These last elements are essential for the first steps of the design process in contrast to the conventional techniques of 3D modeling interacting with mouse and menus. In the development of design computer solutions, it is important to know the user well. However, most researchers propose systems very different than how designers actually work. The DVR doesn’t try to simulate analog tools by computers (digital pens), but takes advantage of hand drawn sketches created using analog techniques that are already known by designers and improved by VR visualization. A review of the implication of this technique on the design process. Not only is the technique fast and easy to learn, the results show that the designer can express their individuality and the idiosyncrasies of their personal sketches; important elements hard to achieve with conventional 3D modeling techniques. Finally, this technique can be perceived as a new paradigm in the way we work with computers in design. The limitations of interfaces and usage of current technology are seen when the designer outputs information from the system to process using other analog techniques. The proposed solution marries the existing competencies and techniques of the designer with the advantages of the computer processing. The quality of the virtual experience of this technique is consistent with current designer’s intentions within the traditional design process.